The future of Rugby League’s administration converged on Dubbo this week commencing the innovative business services course being offered in schools across Far North West New South Wales.

The Higher School Certificate subject provided by the Country Rugby League and Department of Education and Training and TAFE is designed to encourage students to continue their schooling beyond year ten.

And enrolments for the second year are pleasing with 20 students taking part in the course.

“The most attractive part of the subject is it allows students to learn in a field where they have a genuine interest,” said Country Rugby League development officer Kyle Myers.

Nyngan High School student Zac Smith explained why he decided to take up the subject.

“To gain valuable experience and to learn different skills and getting involved to become a business service student,” he said.

Students’ main focus in orientation week was to administer a league tag school gala day where students were assigned various roles and responsibilities before, on and after game day.

Customer service and finance skills were put to the test with students co-ordinating the canteen. Experience was also gained in risk management with education in processes of ground management to ensure safety of players, officials and supporters.

They also learnt skills in promoting a business through the media. The printing of this article means their public relations skills received a tick of approval.

“The subject teaches the same core skills offered in the mainstream business services course but allows students to apply those business management skills to rugby league,” said Ms Myers.

“Administration of rugby league requires initiative and an ability to work both independently and in a team environment and hopefully we can build students confidence to use these skills in the workplace.”

Plus the printing of this article means their public relations skills received a tick of approval as the learnt in a workshop teaching skills in promoting a business through the media.